What are the capital costs of a solar system?

Capital costs, often referred to as upfront costs, are the expenses incurred during the acquisition and installation of the PV system. These include: Cost of Solar Panels: This is typically the most significant part of the capital costs. The price depends on the type and number of panels.

How much does a residential solar system cost?

Using these numbers, an average-sized 8-kilowatt residential solar system would cost between $21,900 – $26,400. Regional pricing differences, the system size, local installation costs, inclusion of home battery backup, and local incentives are other factors which affect the final cost.

How much does solar power cost in 2025?

Take control of your energy costs with solar power. Solar panels generate “free” electricity, but installing a system still costs money. A typical American household needs a 10-kilowatt (kW) system to adequately power their home, which costs $28,241 in 2025.

How much does solar installation cost?

On the high end, we talked to a solar customer in Hawaii who spent $100,000 going solar. Dion in Nevada said their 10-kW system cost about $20,000, which is about the national average price for a 7-kW system. What else affects solar installation costs?

How much do solar panels cost?

The price of solar panels changes depending on where you live, but the average for installation is just under $29,000 or $2.75 per watt. On the high end, we talked to a solar customer in Hawaii who spent $100,000 going solar. Dion in Nevada said their 10-kW system cost about $20,000, which is about the national average price for a 7-kW system.

How much does a solar system cost per watt?

As of publishing, the average cost per watt is $2.84. Most solar companies set the price according to the solar system's wattage. A solar installation's “cost per watt” is a little like the “price per square foot” when you buy a house. It helps compare the value of solar energy systems in different sizes.